We have a Scott's riding lawnmower that Dad purchased around 1998. He got nervous while mowing on a hill one day while it was relatively new and stopped using it. It sat for years until I got it going again a couple years ago.

It mows fine, but this summer we noticed that after a half hour or so, the transmission stops working. After it cools down, it is fine for another half hour.

Looking on the internet, it seems this is not uncommon for many riding mowers; however, replacing the transmission can be expensive.

Anyone have any experience with this; or advice?

Could I have caused damage last year when I was using the mower to pull a heavy trailer through the yard? (Cub wouldn't start that day)

John, I'm guessing you have hydrostatic drive transmission on your Scott's mower? The kids have one about the same year but it is a standard transmission. Don't think I can be much help on a hydrostatic drive. You might try letting it get warm then change the transmission fluid.

VinceD wrote:John, I'm guessing you have hydrostatic drive transmission on your Scott's mower? The kids have one about the same year but it is a standard transmission. Don't think I can be much help on a hydrostatic drive. You might try letting it get warm then change the transmission fluid.

That's correct; it is a hydrostatic drive. I do recall my father was not impressed by the hydrostatic mowers.

John, one other thing I thought of this morning - "sometimes" hydrostatic drives have a seperate fluid cooler - like a mini radiator. If there is one, make sure it is clean. I have also seen some units with a small fan blade on the outside of the transmission to help with the cooling. If there is one, is it clean and working? Just a couple of ideas. Good luck.